How to get no Loan Origination Fees With Keller Mortgage?

So how does a buyer save money on a loan? The Keller Mortgage is available to buyers of a property listed by a Keller Williams agent.  Additionally, it is available to buyers working with a Keller Williams agent.  How can Keller Mortgage do this?  Keller Mortgage is owned by Gary Keller.  However, like many companies, Keller Mortgage does not advertise and provides the savings from marketing the loan company to the buyers.

#1 What is the Zero Plus home loan offered by Keller Mortgage?

The  Zero Plus home loan program is a discounted loan program offered by Keller Mortgage, a division of Keller Williams Realty.  This new product was created for Keller Williams Real Estate agents to offer exclusively to their clients in a Keller Williams transaction to save money.  Keller Williams Realty International purchased a well-respected mortgage company, which has been in business for over 10 years and developed the Zero Plus mortgage. This great mortgage is available to buyers of a Keller Williams listing or to agents using a Keller Williams agent.

#2 What is a Zero Plus Mortgage?

The Zero Plus mortgage loan features no Loan Origination fee, No Underwriting Fees and  No Processing fees.  As a result, at closing, buyers are refunded $1000 for 3rd party expenses, such as home inspections or appraisals.  How much savings could a buyer realize?  Let’s take a home purchase of $300,000, with 10% down payment.  The minimum buyer credit score for this program is a score of 600.

$2700 Loan Origination Fee savings

$1500   Processing and Underwriting savings

$1000   Credit at closing to the buyer

$5200  in Savings!

#3 How Does Keller Mortgage Do This?

Keller Williams Realty co-founder, Gary Keller continues to look for ways to add value for Keller Williams Realty agents.  In today’s competitive market, what sets one agent apart from another?  It is the value the agent provides. Keller Mortgage is able to offer the Zero Plus program by keeping their costs down.  Buyers communicate via phone with the highly trained, experienced loan officer.  Documents are emailed to Keller Mortgage loan officers. Many buyers today are familiar with online lenders and Keller combines the convenience of online lending and amazing Keller Mortgage customer service.

#4 How much of a Loan can I get with Keller Mortgage?

Borrowers can get a loan up to $3,000,000.  Loan amounts must be at least $150,000 to qualify for the $1000 credit at closing.

#5 What if I need closing Cost assistance?

Homeowners buying through a Keller Williams agent can save thousands on their new mortgage.   In many competitive markets, buyers may need money for closing costs.  As a result, by using the Keller Morgage Zero Plus Mortgage, buyers may not need to ask for seller concessions when buying a house to help with their closing costs. Let’s look at two buyers interested in the same house.   One buyer is asking the seller for $5000 in closing costs and the other is not.  Both buyers offer the same purchase price for the house.  Which offer do you think the seller will accept?  Of course, the offer not asking for closing costs, which will put $5000 in the seller’s pocket.

#6 What if I don’t have to Ask the Seller For  Closing Costs?

What if a buyer doesn’t need closing cost assistance?  As a result of using the Zero Plus mortgage, the buyer spends less on closing costs, leaving more money in the buyer’s pocket for house updates or more money to put towards their down payment.  Using Keller Mortgage’s Zero Plus program can put the buyer at a distinct advantage in today’s competitive buyer’s market.  Who doesn’t like to save money? Savvy Keller Williams Realty Agents know there are many ways to negotiate in the best interest of their buyer and how to help buyers save money on this most expensive purchase.

# 7 How Can I get up to $1000  at Closing?

At closing (on loans in excess of $150,000), buyers get a $1000 credit towards 3rd party costs, such as a home inspection or home appraisals.  This lending package from Keller Mortgage can literally save buyers thousands of dollars.

Are all real estate agents the same? That is a resounding No!   Agents vary in their communication skills, their ability to negotiate on behalf of a buyer and in the services they may recommend to a buyer.  The best real estate agents look for ways to help buyers save money while providing resources needed during and after the home buying process!  And this means, the average homeowner today stays in their home for 9 – 10 years.  This means when a homeowner is ready to buy and sell, they are needing services they haven’t needed for years.  Why not work with an agent who is savvy about saving their buyer’s money on a home purchase.

#8 What are mortgage loan closing costs?

These are fees related to obtaining a home mortgage loan.  When closing on a house, a buyer typically has a down payment requirement (VA loans do not require the veteran to have a down payment) and closing costs.  As a result, a  lender typically charges fees necessary to originate the loan for the buyer.  If the Zero Plus loan eliminated the loan Origination fee, Underwriting fee, and Processing fee, what is left to pay?  As a buyer, you are required to have one year’s of homeowner insurance up front and 2 – 4 months of money to cover your homeowner insurance in your escrow or impound account.

You will also need 2 – 4 months of taxes in the same escrow or impound account. The lender will collect money each month as part of your monthly payment.  A  payment will consist of principle (repaying your loan), interest (the interest the bank is charging you for the loan), Taxes  (typically your annual tax bill divided into twelfths, and paid by your lender every year when due.  Your lender will collect a little each month to ensure you have the funds, then pay your county when the bill becomes due.  The lender will also collect one-twelfth of your annual insurance payment, and pay that on your behalf when it becomes due.

Call me today to see how you can take advantage of the Keller Mortgage and save thousands of dollars when you purchcase a home!

 Contact the Shirley Coomer Group at Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living

Call or Text: 602-770-0643 for more Real Estate information.

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Are you Looking for Arizona State Housing for your Student?

Are you Looking for Arizona State Housing for your Student? Have you thought about buying a house for your son or daughter to live in while attending Arizona State University (ASU)? This can save you from paying for campus student housing or off-campus rent in addition to campus dining rates. How would you like to pay next to almost nothing for housing and food expense over the life of your student’s college attendance?   Buying a home in Tempe gives you ASU housing that you own while saving money on student housing and building equity while your student attends college.

Facts About Tempe

Tempe’s estimated population is almost 170,000 strong and covers over 40.2 square miles! This great town is the home of Arizona State University (ASU) and is located In Maricopa County, east of the city of Phoenix, South of Scottsdale, West of Mesa and North of Chandler and Gilbert.  Tempe is a college town with a lot of energy and culture. In Tempe, you will find one of the many Cactus League stadiums, Papago Park, known for distinctive geological formations. Tempe is also the home to the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, picnic areas, several lakes, hiking trails and bicycle paths. There are also plenty of festivals and a river large enough for boating now called Tempe Town Lake.  There is always something to do in Tempe when your student is not studying!

This is one of the top Universities in the country with an enrollment of over 50,000 students.  This makes this home great for resale when your student graduates and you are ready to sell your home. While Tempe is home to ASU, many people appreciate the many amenities of this highly rated city and therefore demand for homes in Tempe is always high for students, faculty and discerning home buyers.

Types of Homes in Tempe

Tempe is a combination of single-family homes, condos, and townhomes.  Many were built with the Southwestern look we associate with the Spanish style of arches, stucco, and tiled roofs.  Prices in Tempe range from under $100,000 for a condo to multi mullion properties in the southern part of Tempe.  Today Tempe is landlocked with few new home building opportunities other than the occasional in-fill project.  This keeps homes in Tempe, especially those near ASU, likely to continue appreciating in value month over month.

The Real estate market in Tempe, Arizona is very strong thanks to ASU housing needs along with many local and national business based in this town.  With currently only 2 months of inventory available as of November 2018. This makes Tempe a seller’s market for those looking to sell and a great opportunity for those looking to buy a home. We expect rental costs for on or off-campus accommodations for ASU student housing to continue to increase. To offset this increase, many savvy parents are purchasing homes for their student to live in for their 4 or 5 years of college.

4 Benefits of Purchasing a Home for Your ASU Student

1.  You have guaranteed student housing for the duration of classes at ASU without worrying about rent increases and multiple moves.  You won’t have to worry about the landlord raising the rent or selling the home during the school year. No need to move between houses when school gets out or if the landlord decides to sell the property.

2.  When you own a property you control it.   As the owner, you control who lives in the house and who comes and goes.  In a dorm type setting or house rental, you may not know the neighbors or who your student may be exposed to on a daily basis.  

3. Students can rent out the additional bedrooms in the house to offset the mortgage and utility expense on the property and once again choose who they associate with each day.  

4.  At the end of graduation, the student can continue to live in the home or the parents can sell the home, realize a nice profit on an investment that has provided great payback and saved you money each year by not having to pay for student housing,  meal plans and parking.

Help Your Student Build A Great Credit History

There is another potential benefit with this home purchase. It is a great way to help you college-age son or daughter build their credit by having them become a co-borrower on the purchase of a home.  Many loan programs today allow students and a parent or other adult with established credit (this could be a  grandparent, godparent, aunts, and uncles or even a family friend)  purchase a home with the student for as little as 3.5% down on an FHA loan.  The adult purchaser is a none-occupant buyer.  This may be a great option if the parents do not qualify for a home purchase at this time but other friends or family member do qualify and are willing to help the student while making a great investment as well!

What a great way to help your student meet housing needs and establish a strong credit history as mortgage payments are made on time every month.  This is a good way to instill accountability in the student/homeowner as well as build a great credit profile.

How Much Can I Save by Buying Versus Renting

Parents often ask me how much they can really save by buying a student home rather than renting on campus or off campus for 4 -5  years.  This is simple.  Look at what you will spend for housing, campus meals & parking over 4 – 5 years (and we know today that many students are on the 5-year plan (or more) to complete their degree).  Compare this to a monthly mortgage offset by 2 rooms rented at $500 to $600 per month. You do the math!  Take for example an estimate of almost $10,000 for student housing on campus for 9 months.  Add to that the meal plan expense for eating most meals on campus which can add another $5000.   And will your son or daughter really eat on campus after you buy the meal plan?  Maybe, maybe not.  Are they going out to eat with their friends anyway?  Again, this is for only 9 months of the year. Don’t forget to factor in those miscellaneous school fees like parking. In addition, the Phoenix Business Journal (Feb. 25^th addition) reports that Phoenix area rentals are increasing faster than the national average and in 2017 increased at a 5.6% rate. Don’t forget about the appreciation over 4 – 5 years when that graduation finally arrives!

In the spring students typically vacate housing on campus. Now, what do you do with all their belongings if students return home for the summer?  You can either find a local place to store (and pay) for storage or you can pay to ship their belongings home for the summer and back again!  We know many students have jobs/internships and need to find alternative living accommodations to stay in the area after school is out for the summer. Those months add substantially to your true housing expenses.

Michal Orr, ASU – Home Appreciation

Michael Orr, who serves as director of ASU’s Center for Real Estate Theory and Practice was quoted in the July 8, 2015, Phoenix Business Journal saying he doesn’t see much supply relief in the near future for the entry-level homes because many new home permits issued are for move-up homes.  This is still true in 2018 as well.   Single-family home appreciation sales rose  7% – 8 % in 2017.    Just projecting the current home sales trends, the Real Estate Industry expects this trend to continue. As you can see, homes in Tempe are appreciating nicely.

When students live in Campus housing they may find the dorms noisy and not conducive to studying.  And let’s face it, as a parent, we expect our students to study hard and make the most of the money we are spending on college tuition and books.  In their own home, they will control their environment, control who comes and goes and when and if the party gets started!  As a parent, we want to shelter our young adults from the dangers of life away from the protected environment in which we raised them. We used to control when they came and went, who was in the house and the noise level.  By purchasing a home for your college-bound student you will still able to control many of the environmental aspects of safety and health of your student.

Think of the hundreds of dollars you will save by not paying for on-campus parking.  Think of the time your student will save by avoiding the parking, and walking to and from classes across campus from the parking lots. Throughout Tempe, public transportation is excellent whether one is using buses or the light rail system.

In closing, please take a look at the attached link to houses available in the Tempe area and the affordability of many, click on this link to affordable Homes in Tempe to see what I mean. If this looks like an option you would consider, give me a call at 602.770.0643 or send me a note through this link. I can go over everything in detail and answer any question you may have.

If you are interested in buying, selling or investing in property in the Phoenix east valley, including Tempe

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Buying a home in the Gated Communities in Mountain Park Ranch Ahwatukee

There are 4 gated communities within the Mountain Park Ranch Community in Ahwatukee which afford a homeowner the feeling of security and exclusivity.  Living in a  gated community will limit the access of people coming and going without access codes into the community.  Will this stop everyone from coming in?  No, access is available to delivery trucks and newspaper and other delivery services.  If you have kids you can rest assured they will share the gate codes with their friends.  My sons used to have codes for any community where their friends lived!

As a Realtor who has lived and worked in Mountain Park Ranch for many years, I love living in a  great master-planned community which provides homeowners great variety of home prices, styles, and locations.  Buyers can choose from single or two-story homes of varying size.  There are many location options, such as backing to walking paths,  backing to Parks or South Mountain preserve lots.   With the highly rated Kyrene School District, young families can buy a home in Mountain Park Ranch and move up to a large home as families grow.  This allows families to attend the same schools even with a move to a larger home. It allows families to continue to use the same dentist and medical Dr without moving to another community.  This also provides an opportunity for homeowners to downsize as time goes on while remaining in the same community as friends and a family and continue to enjoy the restaurants and shopping they with which they are familiar.

If you are looking for more information on the  Mountain Park Ranch HOA  CLICK HERE

Here is the information on the 4 Gated communities in Mountain Park Ranch

Estates at the Ranch

This is a great small community made up of approximately seventy homes, located just south of Chandler Blvd in Ahwatukee. This closely knitted community, built by Americor,  has all single story homes.  There are various floor plans and some homes include private pools.  While most of the Mountain Park Ranch homes do not have gas service to the home, this little community does have some homes with gas to the property.  The decision to have gas to the property would have been determined by the original homeowners as part of the builder options offered.  Some spec homes were built as all-electric homes as well.   Other areas within Mountain Park Ranch have predominately all-electric homes.  This community has access to the 3 Community Pools in Mountain Park Ranch (including one which is heated in the winter), hot tubs, as well all other HOA amenities. To see what Homes are available click on the link Homes for Sale in Estates at the Ranch.

Diamond Ridge I

The gated community of Diamond Ridge I is located East of Ray Road off Ranch Circle North.  These 60 homes also built by Knoell / Shea provide single and two-story options and have larger lots than one typically sees Ahwatukee.  Construction was started on these homes in 1987.  As with many homes in Ahwatukee and within Mountain Park Ranch, many of these homes have been nicely updated which provide move in ready living within an established highly desirable area.  If you are looking for a gated community in Mountain Park Ranch this may be the place for you! Click on the link Homes for Sale in Diamond Ridge 1 to see what’s available.

Diamond Ridge I I

This community has approximately 86 homes nestled in the South Mountain valley areas in Ahwatukee.  Many homes are situated on preserve lots which provide privacy and amazing views of South Mountain.  Residents frequently see (and hear) coyotes, javelina and other wildlife visiting homes in the area.  The Javelina love to eat flowers and it isn’t unusual to find one at your front door munching on plantings!  The homes in the community are predominately built by Knoell / Shea.  This community combines single and two-story home semi-custom home.  The builder,  Knoell / Shea provided new owners with many builder options to customize homes to the needs of the buyers.  Over the last several years many homeowners have upgraded and updated these homes.  While there are no new home communities in Mountain Park Ranch, buyers today can still purchase highly upgraded homes with larger lots and amazing mountain view within the heart of Ahwatukee.  This community has access to the 3 Community Pools in Mountain Park Ranch (including one which is heated in the winter), hot tubs, as well all other HOA amenities. Click on the link Homes for Sale in Diamond Ridge 2 to see what is available.

Canyon Reserve

The private community of Canyon Reserve is made up of approximately 60 custom homes.  This community is nestled in one of the many valley areas of Mountain Park.  Homes in the exclusive gated community are on either side of the single road in and out of the community.  These custom homes all have dramatic mountain views.  Owners have selected a variety of home levels and floor plans making each home unique.  By building custom homes the owners have been able to take advantage of the dramatic views and unique lot locations to ensure the spectacular view and custom home are sure to please even the most discerning buyer, should the owner decide to leave this lovely canyon area.

This community, while providing upscale living also retains easy access to Ahwatukee with convenient freeway access along fine dining and shopping.  Move up buyers from elsewhere in Mountain Park Ranch do not have to change schools when the need to change homes becomes necessary.  If you like to see what Homes are available, click on the link to Homes available in Canyon Reserve.

Mountain Park Ranch is one of the many master-planned communities in Ahwatukee with something for everyone. This community has how HOA fees, access to the highly rated Kyrene School District and to several Ahwatukee private schools.  The convenient southeast valley location makes commuting a breeze!  You will find a variety of Home styles and pricing options and makes this community a must look for anyone moving the Valley of the Sun.  In addition to the pools and other amenities within the gated communities, all gated communities also have access to the 3 Mountain Park Ranch pool and spa areas.  The pool located at 15216 S. Ranch Circle Dr.is heated in the winter!.

If you are thinking about moving to Ahwatukee or the Phoenix East Valley area, call Shirley Coomer of Keller Williams Realty at 602-770-0643.  Feel free to email Shirley at scoomer@kw.com.   To see all the homes listed in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)   CLICK HERE

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What are the Pros and Cons of Living in A Home Owner Association (HOA)?  When you are buying a home in the Phoenix metro area, you need to understand that if you are looking for a newer home, within a community, you will likely be buying in a community with a Home Owner’s Association.  So are there benefits to having an HOA?  What are the concerns about an HOA?

One of the factors home buyers need to consider when looking for a great home in the Phoenix Metro area are the pros and cons of buying within a Home Owner Association (HOA).  When purchasing a home, buyers receive the community “rules”, called Covenant, Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs) of that community.  As part of the buying process, they agree to abide by the Covenants,  Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs) and pay the required HOA dues. In the home buying process, if a buyer does not like the CCRs once they receive them prior to closing on a house, the buyer can usually cancel the purchase contract (as long as the cancellation is made in the required timeframe).

The Positive Aspects of living in a Homer Owner’s Association

Many people like living in an HOA community because they know their neighbors will keep their property well maintained, which in turn helps maintain property value.  Who wants to try and sell a home when the neighbor’s yard looks like a jungle and their paint is peeling?

Often a community will have common areas, such as a community pool, clubhouse, walking paths or tennis courts.  The HOA  will use the HOA fees to manage the maintenance of these areas.  As a homeowner, you have access to these community features.   You may enjoy a pool without the maintenance, expense and safety challenges of a private pool.  Many people prefer the community pool from a safety aspect of having one in their backyard with small children.

We know an HOA has rules for homeowners, including maintaining a pallet of colors homes are required to use.  There may be requirements for grass and shrubbery to be maintained, restrictions on parking.   Some HOAs do not allow parking a car in the driveway or on the street.  There may be restrictions on parking large work trucks or RVs at the property.  Many home additions or structural changes need to be approved by the HOA architectural committee.  But, what if you want to live in a neighborhood where these things are regulated? Then an HOA may be the place for you.

The homeowners actually make up the Home Owner Association.  All homeowners are required to belong to the association and follow the rules set forth in the CCRs. If you don’t like the rules in your community, you can join the various committees for the HOA.  Don’t forget to vote on issues the HOA brings before the community to ensure your voice is heard.

What are the benefits of living in an HOA community?

Homes in a community with an HOA typically are well maintained – When you purchase a home within an HOA community, you will find that homes are well maintained.  Should a homeowner not maintain the exterior of the home (weeds, peeling paint, etc.), the HOA will step in and initially send the owner a letter regarding any violations.  The HOA may also levy fines against the homeowner in an effort to force them to comply to the CCRs.

You don’t have to address property condition with your neighbors – If there is a homeowner not maintaining their property, you as a neighbor do not have to address the offender, just contact your HOA board members or manager.  The HOA or appointed manager will address

A community pool – If the community has a community pool or common area, the homeowners may use these facilities as a benefit of their membership.  Many homeowners like the idea of a community pool.  A community pool is a great way to meet your neighbors and in many communities, it serves as a great social gathering location.  Many homeowners like the benefits of a community pool and spa without the upkeep of a personal pool area.  Often homeowners with small children or pets prefer not to have a pool in their own backyard!
In the Phoenix Metro area, a private pool can easily add over $100 per month to your household expenses with water use and chemicals or a pool service.

Other community amenities – Often, an HOA will provide other amenities, such as a clubhouse, tennis or volleyball courts, park areas or playground equipment. Typically these amenities are not something an individual homeowner would have in their backyard!

Discounted Golf Course Fees – Often if you purchase in a golf club community, you may get preference in booking tee times.  You may also receive  reduced pricing  the  pro shop, etc

Front yard maintenance – Some communities include your front yard maintenance as part of your HOA fees.  This is a great benefit to those who don’t want to spend time on ard work or those who aren’t able to do their own yard work.

What is the downside of living an HOA?

While many homeowners appreciate the benefits a homeowner association provides, there are some who have had bad experiences with overzealous HOA managers or CCRs who say “Never Again”!  But really, is there a downside to an HOA?  In part, it depends on how the HOA is managed.  There are instances of those managing the HOAs who attempt to manage with an iron fist and push rules to the limits.  In many HOA communities, if, for instance, you leave your garbage cans out the day after trash pick-up, you may be sent a letter that you are in violation.  If the CCRS states trash cans should be removed from your driveway the day that the trash is picked up, some communities could send a letter or levy a fine for repeated violations.

Rules on the location of garbage cans – In many HOA communities, if, for instance, you leave your garbage cans out the day after trash pick-up, you may be sent a letter that you are in violation.  If the CCRS states trash cans should be removed from your driveway the day that the trash is picked up, some communities could send a letter or levy a fine for repeated violations.

No parking restrictions – While you may need to follow your city or town parking guidelines, there is no HOA to restrict the type of vehicle you have parked at your house or for how long.  Family can visit and park their RV or trailer as long as you want them to stay!

Paint your house the color you want – without HOA guidelines, you can paint your house the color you want, and not be limited to a “neutral” palette.

Choose your preferred landscape – The HOA may have a required number o tree of bushes in your front yard.  In Phoenix, we often see desert landscaping rather than grass.  Some HOAs will dictate the style of your front yard landscaping.

The color of homes is typically regulated by the HOA.  If you do not what to be told what color to paint your home, you might not want to live in an HOA community.

No approval from the community to remodel the exterior of the home make additions, add /remove shutters  You will still need to be sure you comply to your city building codes,

Save money by not paying monthly HOA fees. – HOA fees can range from a few dollars a month to $100, $200, $300 or more, depending on the amenities within a community.

Some HOAs are poorly managed – Even with an HOA community, you will want to carefully review the CCRs and financial statements before buying your home.  Some HOAs are self-managed, while others outsource the management.  A poorly managed HOA can be more frustrating than no HOA.  If the HOA doesn’t apply the rules consistently and fairly to all residents a homeowner could get frustrated  If the HOA fails to take action on neighbor complaints, other residents can grow frustrated as well.

How do I know if I am choosing a great HOA community?

When buying a home within an HOA community, do your homework.  This includes consulting with your local Real Estate professional.  If you are considering making an offer on a home, knock on the door of the neighbors.  Ask how they like the community and the HOA.  People are very happy to talk to prospective home buyers.  They will often talk endlessly about the community, pros, and cos as well as the former owners of the house you are considering!  Ask current homeowners if they had had any issues with the HOA or if they know others who may have had challenges with the HOA.

When you are under contract on a home, you will receive a copy of the most current CCRs.  Read these carefully!  Review the financial information included.

What are the financial reserves??  Is there any pending litigation that could cause the community to increase rates or require the HOA to levy an assessment.  How recently have common areas been maintained?  Go look at any community common areas.  Is the pool area well maintained?  What is the condition of any pool furniture/?  Does it look fresh and clean or is it ratty looking?  Are residents evening using the amenities?  How do the tennis courts or volleyball courts look?  This will give you an idea of how well the HOA maintains the community. You can call the HOA and ask any fact-finding questions you may have to satisfy yourself that the community is well maintained.

How do I get a say in my HOA community?

Once you purchase your home, get involved in the community!  Attend board meetings.  Vote on issues that are placed before the community residences.  Understand the issues.  Provide input to issues and help find a resolution to issues identified.  Many homeowners do not attend their HOA community meetings and few actually vote.  The HOA is made up of the residents who live in the community, not people who don’t own property in the community.  Discuss issues with your neighbors and work collectively to improve the community.

Don’t let a few in the community dictate their opinions to everyone else.  Sometimes boards have to make difficult decisions.  Sometimes if few people elect to vote on an item, the HOA could implement a rule that is not in the best interest of the community.  It is better to understand any upcoming changes and educate your neighbors to vote.  Voting an idea down is easier than repealing it!

Home buyers need to do their homework when considering buying a home within a HOA community.  Understand the restrictions you will need to live by.  Check out the financial health of the HOA, read the CCRs that are sent to you and review the financials.  If you have questions, make phone calls and inquire.  HOAs are great for some people and may not work well for others.  As a home buyer, this is one of the many home aspects you need to check out.

If you are considering buying, selling or investing in real estate in the Phoenix east valley area, please give Shirley Coomer a call for a free consultation.  The Shirley Coomer Group specializes in the Phoenix east valley.  To see all the properties in the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), CLICK HERE.

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How Does the Mobile Real Estate App help you when looking for a Home in Mountain Park Ranch?

You have been out and about running errands…. been over at Sprouts (48th  & Ray Rd) picking up some great produce at unbelievable prices.  Maybe you had to run out for pet food. The thoughts turn to how great an area this with all the Shopping, convenience and access to the major highways.  What a great place to live!  You pull out your phone and start Googling the area to see exactly where you are. You find you are in Ahwatukee just outside of Mountain Park Ranch. You start researching what kind of Homes Mountain Park Ranch has to offer. You like what you see. A wide range of homes in size. style, and price range. Now, what do you do?

You remember that your Keller Williams Realtor sent you a phone app just for this reason. You were telling her that you were thinking of moving and she suggested putting this App on your phone. With this app you can see homes in the area you are currently for sale by searching with the “nearby homes” section of the app.  She sent you a link to your phone. It was so easy to install and it was Free!! See below for the link to get this App on your phone.

You start west on Ray Road and drive into Mountain Park Ranch. You have the map pulled up that shows the area, you click on the Mobile App and it gives you many options:

-Easily find open houses

-See Homes available close to where you are driving – See the prices

-Check out Rental properties

-Use the GPS option to get directed to the Home

Do you want to see what’s available in Mountain Park Ranch right now? Click on the link to Mountain Park Ranch Homes to see what is currently available.

It is Time to Dive into Technology

Sometimes people are reluctant to trying something new. This application is simple to use and gives you many options for checking out the neighborhoods of Mountain Park Ranch. You can easily find a great home using this Free Mobile APP,  try it today and be the first to know when your dream home comes on the market or a price reduction takes place.

Get Free instant access to local homes from any I Phone, Droid or I PAD. Click on the Link below under the Mobile URL section and it will walk you through the process of installing the application.

 To get the Free Mobile App, See Below:

Mobile URL: http://app.kw.com/KW19C

 OR

TEXT       KW19CU2T  To  87778

If you are Looking for homes in the Mountain Park Ranch area of Ahwatukee / Phoenix, either call me at the number below or click on the link to more about Mountain Park Ranch and contact me through my website.

Shirley Coomer

Keller Williams Realty

602.770.0643

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 Free Buyer Consultation Click Here…

Why Choose Shirley Coomer, a Realtor with  Keller Williams Realty in Ahwatukee?

When choosing Shirley Coomer, a Keller Williams Realtor, you have a Real Estate Professional with the experience in both Buying and Selling Homes

It is important to have the right agent to ensure you see all the right properties to select your new home.  Shirley specializes in the Phoenix East Valley area.  She enjoys working in Mountain Park Ranch Community of Ahwatukee where she lives. Shirley brings excellent communication and negotiation skills to any transaction to ensure a smooth and timely process. If you are considering a purchase a Home in the Ahwatukee area click on the link to get to the Property Search area to see what is available.

Shirley works to educate the buyers on the entire home buying process. she ensures the buyer undersands  the current market conditions in the Pheonix metro area by beginning with a Free buyer consultation session.   Even experienced buyers who move to Arizona from other states appreciate this consultation.  Real Estate process can vary from state to state.  In Arizona, Real Estate agents practice contract law as it applies to real estate transactions.

Here in the Phoenix metro area, we do not typically use Real Estate attorneys (though any buyer can have an attorney review and consult on real estate documents).  Often buyers from the East Coast or Midwest have used real estate attorneys for their transactions and appreciate understanding the difference in state processes. If you want to investigate Shirley further, click on the link to my website Mountain Park Ranch Real Estate.

Always Use An Experienced Agent

As an  Experienced agent, Shirley will help you determine the best offer for your new home.  You don’t want to overpay for a home but you don’t want to lose your dream home because you presented a low ball offer the seller did not take your offer seriously.  You want to be an informed buyer, understanding whether you are buying your home in a buyer’s market, seller’s market or balanced market.

Your first step in the home buying process is to get prequalified with a lender.  You want to understand what homes you can afford, your closing costs and any other fees associated with a particular loan.  Understand the requirements for earnest money, down payment and inspections, are important.  Once this is done you are ready to begin your home search!

There are 5 phases of home buying…..

 First – Identifying the home you will buy.   Separate wants from needs, determine location, style, and home features. What are your Must-haves versus  Like to have?  How do your needs compare to the amount of mortgage you wish to obtain?  If more than one person will make the buying decision, are all parties on the same page regarding what is important in a home purchase?  Determine the timeframe to meet the buyer needs. What tools does your Realtor offer?  Mobile Apps?  Easy searching tools on a Realtor website? Automated searches?

Second – Making an offer and negotiating an offer on the property.  What is the right offer to ensure you get the house you want at a fair value?  No one wants to overpay but you also don’t want to waste everyone’s time with low ball offers that will never get accepted and potentially offend the seller.

Third – Negotiating repairs that have surfaced during the home inspection.  In Arizona, buyers have an opportunity to ask the seller to make repairs.  This could include, dripping faucets, roof issues or AC issues.

Fourth – Negotiate any issues with the appraisal.  What happens in the home appraises less than contract value?

Fifth  – Closing the deal.  This means working through the home inspection process, identifying and asking for seller repairs as appropriate.  It also means ensuring financing is on track and your lender is receiving all documents requested in a timely manner to ensure a smooth loan process.  This also includes working through the home appraisal process.  What if the home does not appraise at or above contract price?  What happens next?

What Happens After You Are Under Contract?

Buying a home is the largest investment most of us ever make and it makes sense to use an experienced, knowledgeable agent who can effectively negotiate all the issues you will encounter in buying a home. In addition, there needs to be effective communication between the real estate agent and buyer throughout the process.    Some buyers think the purchase price is the only negotiated part of the home buying transaction.  What about the date for closing on the property?

This is only the first step.  Repairs that are identified in the home inspection need to be negotiated as well.  This can save the buyer thousands of dollars if there are issues with the Roof, sprinkler system, HVAC or other material conditions. You need a Realtor who understands what warranted items are included in the purchase contract.

Any agent can use the Realtor key to open a door and show a prospective buyer a house in Ahwatukee or anywhere else. What does the agent know about the builder or the community?  How does this house compare to their properties on the market today or recent sales in the area? Does this house meet your criteria? (Buyer states they don’t want a home backing to a street….and here they are looking at a house backing to the street, or buyer states a pool is a must have…and the house doesn’t have a pool).

Always look for an agent who lives and works in the community where you are looking to buy your home.  Will the agent help the buyer identify a realistic asking price for the property?  Does the agent have recommendations for vendors available for replacing the flooring or updating the kitchen?  Is there a trusted home inspector who will be factual in presenting the findings of the home inspection and help the buyer understand condition issues in the home?

If there are issues will the seller make necessary repairs to the property to the satisfaction of the buyers?  Will the Realtor help the buyer find the necessary licensed contractors to provide an estimate of repairs so the buyer can determine whether they want to move ahead with the sale or just cancel the contract and look for another house?

Local Ahwatukee Knowledge

Shirley has lived in Mountain Park Ranch Community of Ahwatukee since 1999 and knows the area like the back of her hand!  She has four sons who have graduated from schools in the Kyrene School district. She has been in the Real Estate Business since 2005 and has a qualified group of professionals ( building contractors, inspectors, Home repairs contractors) to deal with all phases of home buying or selling.

As with all legal contracts, and in Arizona the purchase contract is a legal and binding document.   Buyers and sellers are required to meet certain dates and conditions of the purchase contract.  These dates often have financial consequences for buyers and sellers.  It is important to have an agent that communicates these dates to the buyer along and stays on top of seller deliverables?  I

While many people feel obligated to work with friends and family who have their real estate license, a buyer needs to be sure the agent is well qualified.  Do you want to risks thousands of dollars of your money to make your cousin happy?  If your friend or family member only sells a few homes a year, do they have enough experience to ensure you are getting the best price for your dream house?  Are they on top of the current market? Do they understand how to ensure warranted items identified in your home inspection are repaired by the seller within contractual guidelines?

Tell me About Keller Williams

Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living is the top Real Estate brokerage by volume in Ahwatukee.  This office has been a leader in sales for many years.  With almost 200 agents, this brokerage not only services the Ahwatukee area but the entire Phoenix metro area.

At this Keller Williams office, you will find experienced commercial brokers and the area’s leading luxury specialists.  Daily training classes are held at the office to ensure agents continue to learn and fine turn their skills.

This Keller Williams Realty office also gives back to the community in a big way.  The agents here participate in the traditional Keller Williams RED Day, where Keller Williams agents worldwide take a day to give back to the community.  This office for many years has collected hundreds of pounds of food for the Kyrene Foundation’s Kyrene Family Resource Center (KFRC).  They also hold an annual bowl-a-ton to collect back to school supplies and backpacks for the KFRC.

For a free buyer’s consultation on buying a home in Ahwatukee or anywhere else in the East Valley, give me a call at the number below or send me a note through my email link to set up a convenient appointment.

Shirley Coomer – Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living    602-770-0643 / scoomer@kw.com

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Buying investment property in Ahwatukee

If you are considering buying investment property in Ahwatukee you may want to look at a great opportunity now available to buy a new home in Rosewood  Village at the Foothills.  This is a new community adjacent to Mountain Park Ranch in the Ahwatukee Foothills.  This development is now offering their models for sale with a lease back to the builder for 15 months while the models are used to showcase their homes. This gated community with a clubhouse and pool in the heart of Ahwatukee is a great opportunity to buy a new home for investment purposes. If you are considering other areas in Ahwatukee, click on the link to check on available homes in the area.

What a great opportunity to buy a new build, have a built-in rental agreement for 15 months ( or perhaps longer) and when the lease expires you have a new, never lived in home for resale or rent or even move into yourself.  There are many costs covered by the builder as part of the lleaseback such as all utilities, property taxes, renters insurance, HOA fees during the lease term. How many times can you have a rental home with no worries? With the leaseback option that’s exactly what you have.

You may also be interested in the article about buying Investment Property in Arizona.  CLICK HERE

Another beauty of purchasing a model home is that the house you bought is upgraded by the builder to showcase the workmanship and builder options to buyers who walk through the model homes to see the floor plans and finishes available to them if they choose to purchase a home in the community. So the home you buy has great resale potential since it is highly upgraded.

With most rentals, you have to conduct background and credit check to make sure you have a tenant who is in good standing and will pay the rent.  With the builder as the tenant the owner can feel confident the rent check will show up every month and on time and if repairs are needed will have the resources and desire to keep the house in great shape.  At the end of the lease, a model perfect home is yours!

Have you thought about investing in real estate using your IRA or 401K funds?  Did you know you could purchase a home, such as any of the model homes,  with your retirement money (no out of pocket expense to you personally) and have the equity you gain remain in your retirement account?  This would be a self-directed IRA account. Wise investors are looking to diversify their retirement income potential.  A self-directed IRA investing in real estate may be just the tool for you.  To find out more about how I can help you purchase an investment property in Ahwatukee or other communities using your Retirement funds give me a call or send me a note if this interests you through the following link to my email.

Shirley Coomer, Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living.  602.770.0643,   scoomer@kw.com

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